Tribute to Baxter the world's oldest hospice therapy dog

Baxter's Final Photo by Melissa Joseph

Dogs bring us joy from the moment they come and home and become part of the family to the end of wonderful lives when its time to take all of our wisdom to the next level.

Baxter was the world’s oldest therapy dog at 19 years and 6 months and brought more to life than one can even touch on describing in a simple story.  He passed away on October 16, 2009 and the joy that his life brought to hospice patience in San Diego, CA will live on forever in this life and the next for so many.

Baxter showed the world the beauty of therapy dog work up until the very last days of his life.  The giving of life and love will live on forever.

Here is a tribute written to Baxter by his Mom Melissa Joseph who loves him dearly and is one of those people that the world needs more of.

March 23, 1990-October 16, 2009

Baxter, the world's best, most devoted, and oldest therapy dog, 19 years and 6 months, eased peacefully from his life on Friday afternoon, October 16th.

Baxter began volunteering 7 years ago at Sand Diego Hospice. In a place created for making goodbyes gentler, Baxter comforted everyone who crossed his path. He licked tears from grieving faces, gave hugs to those at a loss for words, and warmed the hearts and souls of those who were making their transition. He would take his body and curl himself next to a patient for hours, making this intense eye contact that penetrated the human spirit in everyone, proving his undeniable loyalty, love, and sensitivity. Everyone loved Baxter!

I took in Baxter after he was rescued from a life threatening circumstance. He was 2 years old, and it took me 6 weeks to make him mine. It was not much longer and he became my heart. As I socialize him more and more, I realized Baxter was not like other dogs. He had a gift and everyone who met him witnessed it. Though perhaps difficult to believe, to meet Baxter was an experience. And, you never forgot that experience. He touched everyone he met.

When my husband, Dennis and I went through the volunteer orientation at San Diego Hospice to become volunteers, Baxter accompanied us because he went everywhere with us. During those many hours, he spread his magic spirit throughout the room. And, in the end, the knowing staff exhorted: "You must get Baxter certified. He's magical, and he would make the perfect therapy dog!"

What they recognized was Baxter's special ability to bring light to darkness, smiles to down turned lips, respite to tear swollen faces, and comfort to pained hearts. His mere presence brought joy to rooms that were filled with tragedy and imminent loss.

He was the perfect love affair. His love never ended, he was true to the bone, and his companionship was invaluable. Baxter taught me many of life's lessons. And when I forgot one, he reminded me in the subtlest of ways. He was consistent, reliable, and predictable. He was always in a good mood, prepared to volunteer and full of love, kisses and devotion.

There has never been a dog like Baxter in my life. And there will never be another Baxter. He truly was the world's best therapy dog.

Though Baxter is gone, his legacy lives on through his book. MOMENTS WITH BAXTER, a series of 36 true stories and photos that demonstrate the magical connection Baxter made with individuals at the end of their life.

Visit Baxter at his website.

ALL PROCEEDS FROM THIS BOOK WILL BE DONATED TO CHARITY IN HONOR AND MEMORY OF BAXTER.

Jt Clough© 2009     www.SitK9Sit.com          www.Twitter.com/GoTrainYourDog